Ṣaṣṭha-prakaraṇam (Pratyāhāra) · Verse 8
न क्षुधा न च पिपासा न शीतं न च मात्सर्यम् । धारणायां स्थितं चेतो न विषादं व्रजेत् क्वचित् ॥
na kṣudhā na ca pipāsā na śītaṃ na ca mātsaryam | dhāraṇāyāṃ sthitaṃ ceto na viṣādaṃ vrajet kvacit ||
Prakaraṇa VI, verse 8 meticulously outlines the conditions that prevent the yogī’s mind from succumbing to vishada (desolation) when firmly established in dhāraṇā. The specific examples – the absence of kshudha (hunger), pipasa (thirst), sheeta (cold), and matsarya (envy) – are not merely abstract suggestions, but represent fundamental obstacles to mental stability. These external and internal cravings represent attachments that disrupt the flow of prāṇa and distort the chitta. The phrase “never falls into desolation” implies a dynamic resistance to negativity, a conscious effort to maintain equilibrium. This is achieved through the disciplined practice of yama and niyama, coupled with the unwavering focus of dhāraṇā, which acts as a protective shield against the onslaught of worldly desires. The verse underscores the importance of cultivating detachment not as a passive resignation, but as an active process of shielding the mind from disturbance – a vital component in the path to samādhi and ultimately, liberation.